• Create a plan for when and how you will complete all your applications. Now is the time to begin working on the completion of all of your application materials. This can feel overwhelming and time consuming, but having a good plan set will help. If you haven’t already, develop a list of what each application will require. You will notice that many of them will require the same type of item (i.e. school transcripts, exam scores, resume, letters of recommendation, etc.). For the items that overlap among your applications, it’s possible to make one generic copy to use for each individual application. Other items will require a more personalized approach (i.e. essays). Be sure to make a plan that works for you and your schedule. This is important because you will likely be in school and/or working during this time, so plan accordingly!

• Determine who will write your letters of recommendation. Remember all the networking and relationships you built in Phase 1 and Phase 2? Now is the time when that will come in handy, as you will need at least 3-4 of them to write you a letter of recommendation to accompany your application. You absolutely MUST ask your letter writers with at least one month advanced notice! It is extremely unprofessional and inconvenient to ask someone to write a letter of recommendation with little time to prepare. It will also save you some stress to know that you have given them enough time to prepare a thorough and quality letter on your behalf. In general, the best letters of recommendation are written by individuals who know you well, have witnessed your work or academics in some capacity, and who can speak to your passion for wanting to pursue your particular field of study. The graduate programs will mostly likely want to see letters from the following individuals: your professors, previous or current supervisors, advisors, mentors, or individuals who are already working in the career field you are hoping to pursue.

• Ask friends, family, advisors, professors, and others for editing help. Application materials require a lot of writing, and completion of rather detailed documents. It would be useful for you to find someone to look over all of your materials to proofread for any mistakes or changes that you should make. This is important, because it’s not uncommon for a graduate program to pull your application due to grammar and spelling mistakes. Your application is a reflection of you and what you will bring to the program. Therefore, also ask your editing helpers to see if your application adequately communicates or expresses your true character and personality.

• Submit your applications! Lastly, just do it! You deserve this. You are worthy of this. You are good enough. You have worked hard for this. You are your ancestors’ wildest dreams and they are rooting for you. Dot every “i” and cross every “t” then submit your applications!